If your vehicle has a damaged windshield, you usually have to choose between repair and replacement. If the damage on your windshield is a small chip or scratch that does not affect its structural integrity, a simple repair usually helps. However, if the damage is more extensive, you should replace the windshield.
So, how do you know that your windshield's damage is beyond repair? Below are some signs to look out for.
Your Windshield Has Dents
A professional auto glass repair company can repair one little dent, but if your windshield has several dents, a replacement could be the only option. You should also replace your windshield if the dent on your windshield is bigger than a quarter. If your vehicle's windshield has a dent, take immediate action to avoid bigger problems.
Your Windshield Has Cracks
A crack on your windshield can cover a small area or spread across the entire auto glass. Unlike dents and chips, cracks are hard to repair, even with modern equipment. A windshield expert can repair tiny cracks, but they will most likely advise you to buy a new windshield if it has a large crack.
Your Windshield Has a Lot of Pitting
If you regularly drive on the highway, debris such as dust and sand can wear down your windshield over time. Signs of pitting include specks, glares, and tiny dents on your auto glass. Pitting will also limit your visibility when driving due to the glare and harsh flashes of light.
The effects of pitting can be minor initially, but the damage will worsen over time. For example, a windshield with lots of pitting is often more susceptible to chips, dents, and cracks. Since no repairs are usually available for pitting, replace your auto glass when it starts weathering.
Your Windshield Leaks When it Rains
Leaks on your windshield are reason enough to replace it. In most cases, your windshield starts leaking when the rubber seal around the auto glass starts deteriorating. The leaking water will pool inside the vehicle, often damaging your car's electric systems and fabrics.
If you start noticing the leaks soon after replacing your windshield, the culprit could be improper installation. However, if the windshield is old, the leaks could signify that you need to replace your auto glass.
Your Windshield Has Missing Parts
If your car's windshield cracks and loses some of its parts, replace the windshield because such damages are not repairable. A windshield with missing parts is a safety hazard, as it allows different forms of debris in the car when driving. Flying debris could lead to a serious accident.
Your Windshield Is White at the Edges
Windshields come treated with polyvinyl butyral (PVB) to promote users' safety. The PVB in your windshield prevents the glass from shattering when you are in an accident. However, if moisture gets in between the PVB and the glass, the PVB may start coming off the glass, leaving a white color on the edges. Replace this auto glass before it causes serious injuries.
Your Vehicle's Safety Inspection Is Approaching
Since your vehicle will not likely pass the safety inspection with a scratched or cracked windshield, replace it before the inspection date. This way, you will avoid fines for the extra cost of a second inspection after you have replaced your windshield.
At Perfection Auto Glass, we offer specialized windshield services for any vehicle, including heavy equipment and trucks.
Contact us
today for a free estimate. We look forward to seeing you soon and helping you with your windshield repair and replacement needs. Let us know if you have any questions or concerns.